Baked Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Description: Loaded with good sharp cheddar cheese, this baked mac and cheese recipe is the definition of comfort food and is perfect on its own or as a side.
Ingredients
- 1 lb macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp dry mustard
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups whole milk
- 8 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Cook macaroni according to package and set aside.
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt butter. Stir in flour, dry mustard and black pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until well combined. Gradually add milk and cook until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 10 minutes. You'll want to stir constantly.
- Remove sauce from heat and gradually add 4 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and whisk until cheese is melted and smooth.
- Add pasta and mix until everything is coated. Pour half of the mac and cheese into a 9x13 greased baking dish or 12 inch cast iron skillet. Add 2 cups of cheese evenly throughout and then the remaining mac and cheese. Top with remaining 2 cups of cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.